Fans of Mononoke (2007) often praise its surreal animation, allegorical storytelling, and philosophical undertones. With its unconventional power systems, episodic narratives, and heavy use of symbolism, it subverts expectations in both genre and form. While Mononoke has gained cult status over time, many anime with similar traits remain overlooked.
This list highlights 15 underrated anime series that echo Mononoke’s distinct qualities—be it through supernatural elements, striking art styles, psychological depth, or experimental narratives.
1. Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales (2006)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Prime Video
- Episodes: 11
- Rating: 7.35 (MAL)
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Notable Staff: Kenji Nakamura (Director of the “Bakeneko” arc), which directly led to Mononoke
Plot: A three-part anthology exploring supernatural Japanese folk tales, each arc features a new story rooted in traditional horror.
Similarities: The final arc, Bakeneko, introduces the Medicine Seller from Mononoke, sharing the same narrative structure, themes of karma and guilt, and expressionist art style.
2. Shoujo Kakumei Utena (1997)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Episodes: 39
- Rating: 8.20 (MAL)
- Studio: J.C.Staff
- Notable Staff: Kunihiko Ikuhara (Director), Chiho Saito (Original Creator)
Plot: Utena Tenjou duels her way through a mysterious academy to protect a girl known as the Rose Bride, unraveling layers of psychological and societal metaphors.
Similarities: Both series use visual symbolism, challenge narrative norms, and present allegories within surreal settings.
3. Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo (2004)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 24
- Rating: 8.14 (MAL)
- Studio: Gonzo
- Notable Staff: Mahiro Maeda (Director), known for experimental visuals
Plot: A futuristic adaptation of the classic Dumas novel, focusing on revenge, deception, and tragic fate in a richly layered sci-fi world.
Similarities: Shares thematic depth, an unusual visual aesthetic, and a fragmented narrative structure, appealing to Mononoke’s art-forward fans.
4. Kemonozume (2006)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: 7.26 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Masaaki Yuasa (Director)
Plot: A tale of forbidden love between a human and a flesh-eating monster, mixing action, horror, and romance.
Similarities: Shares stylistic risks, grotesque imagery, and layered metaphors around love, taboo, and identity.
5. The Tatami Galaxy (2010)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 11
- Rating: 8.59 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Masaaki Yuasa (Director), Yojouhan Shinwa Taikei (Original Work)
Plot: A nameless college student explores multiple alternate realities of his life, each ending in ironic lessons and regrets.
Similarities: Experimental structure, non-linear storytelling, heavy reliance on narration and philosophical introspection.
6. Kaiba (2008)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: 8.15 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Masaaki Yuasa (Director)
Plot: In a dystopian world where memories can be transferred between bodies, a young man searches for his identity.
Similarities: Surrealism, social commentary, and visual abstraction make it a compelling follow-up to Mononoke.
7. Ergo Proxy (2006)
- Streaming: Hulu, Prime Video
- Episodes: 23
- Rating: 7.90 (MAL)
- Studio: Manglobe
- Notable Staff: Shukou Murase (Character Design)
Plot: In a post-apocalyptic city, a female investigator uncovers hidden truths about her society and the artificial beings known as AutoReivs.
Similarities: Themes of identity, existentialism, and a cerebral tone aligned with Mononoke‘s investigative structure.
8. Aoi Bungaku Series (2009)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: 7.95 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Several guest directors, including Tetsurō Araki (Death Note)
Plot: Six classic Japanese literary works are adapted with unique visual styles, each exploring psychological or moral dilemmas.
Similarities: Like Mononoke, it reinvents classic storytelling through deeply stylized animation and mature themes.
9. Sarazanmai (2019)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Episodes: 11
- Rating: 7.50 (MAL)
- Studio: MAPPA, Lapin Track
- Notable Staff: Kunihiko Ikuhara (Director)
Plot: Three teens are turned into kappas and must collect “shirikodama” to confront emotional secrets in their lives.
Similarities: Ritualistic symbolism, transformation themes, and metaphoric storytelling akin to Mononoke’s moral parables.
10. Karakuri Circus (2018)
- Streaming: Prime Video
- Episodes: 36
- Rating: 7.00 (MAL)
- Studio: Studio VOLN
- Notable Staff: Masaru Yokoyama (Music), adapted from manga by Ushio to Tora’s creator
Plot: A young boy inherits a fortune and gets entangled in a secret war involving living puppets and ancient curses.
Similarities: Supernatural beings, mysterious travelers, and stylized battles centered on morality and inheritance.
11. House of Five Leaves (2010)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: 7.80 (MAL)
- Studio: Manglobe
- Notable Staff: Tomomi Mochizuki (Director), based on manga by Natsume Ono
Plot: A timid ronin joins a band of kidnappers, slowly uncovering their motives and his own sense of purpose.
Similarities: Subdued pacing, layered character development, and Edo-period aesthetics mirror Mononoke‘s tone.
12. Mouryou no Hako (2008)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: 7.70 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Ryosuke Nakamura (Director), based on a mystery novel series
Plot: A series of gruesome murders leads to a metaphysical investigation blending logic and mysticism.
Similarities: Deeply psychological with ritualistic elements, episodic arcs, and haunting visuals.
13. Shigofumi (2008)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: 7.44 (MAL)
- Studio: J.C.Staff
- Notable Staff: Tatsuo Sato (Director)
Plot: A mysterious girl delivers letters from the dead to the living, often revealing dark truths.
Similarities: Episodic storytelling, moral ambiguity, and supernatural framing device echo Mononoke’s narrative rhythm.
14. Fantastic Children (2004)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 26
- Rating: 7.81 (MAL)
- Studio: Nippon Animation
- Notable Staff: Takashi Nakamura (Director)
Plot: A group of white-haired children reappear through centuries, holding secrets about reincarnation and cosmic destiny.
Similarities: Philosophical undertones, surreal art, and mythic storytelling tie it closely to Mononoke‘s spirit.
15. Pet (2020)
- Streaming: Prime Video, HIDIVE
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: 6.74 (MAL)
- Studio: Geno Studio
- Notable Staff: Takahiro Omori (Director), based on manga by Ranjō Miyake
Plot: Mind manipulators called “Pets” can alter memories and emotions—at a steep emotional cost.
Similarities: Reality-bending visuals, psychological depth, and moral complexity make this a fit for Mononoke fans.
Why These Anime Work for Mononoke Fans
Each of these titles channels the spirit of Mononoke through unconventional storytelling, intricate visual design, and thoughtful exploration of human nature and the supernatural. Whether you’re drawn to layered narratives, cultural symbolism, or haunting aesthetics, these hidden gems deserve a closer look. If you’re ready to dive deeper into anime that challenges norms and leaves lasting impressions, this list is your gateway.
